I appreciate the theological and exegetical inisghts that are currently being discussed in reference to eschatology. I have been a pastor in Northern California for 18 years and have ministered extensively with senior citizens who are eagerly longing their "home going" to heaven. Is this being self-centered? I think not. My biggest concern with this current conversation is that we minimize the personal impact the gospel can have on individuals. I cannot agree more with the fact that we tend to practice a self-centered form of spirituality today. However, I have not been convinced that this is always a bad thing. When I stand by the side of a person (young or old) and pray for them moments before they enter the operating room I want them to know that there is hope for THEM in the truth of a place called heaven. And I am pretty sure that they are thinking about this and clinging to this hope and promise as they enter that room. In fact, if I found myself in a situation where my life was threatened I am quite sure that 1) I would be thinking very self-centeredly and 2) I would want my young children to know that if anything happened to their daddy, I would be with God in heaven. When I officiate at a funeral of a dedicated follower of Jesus I want those who are mourning the loss of this loved one to know that the deceased is in a much better place than this fallen earth--a place called heaven. What's more, I would (and do) encourage each person to consider where THEY will be spending eternity. Jesus, speaking to Lazarus' sister said, "Do YOU believe this?" in reference to him being the resurrection and the life. Heaven is a real place and countless Christians have been there for thousands of years. Until the Lord returns heaven will continue to play a central part in the life and message of the church--and rightfully so--because that's where all Christians will be going until that blessed day arrives! So in the mean time we can echo the words of Paul: "For me to live is Christ. To die is gain." Thanks for listening.